The Wetwheels Foundation is the charity partner for the first Maritime UK Solent Awards, raising awareness of its important and inspiring work, enabling disabled people to enjoy the open water barrier-free.
The charity was founded in 2011 by yachtsman, Geoff Holt MBE DL, and has helped 6,000 disabled and disadvantaged people each year to participate, learning seamanship and building confidence with a shared and enriching experience.
Geoff Holt MBE DL said: “We are delighted to be the charity partner for the Maritime UK Solent Awards. For Wetwheels, this is a wonderful opportunity to share our story with both existing and new supporters, and with two boats based in Southampton and Portsmouth, we have a strong regional presence, with a reputation for excellence.
We have a number of strong partnerships with the community and businesses. The Solent is a thriving place to be, with a rich mixture of culture, history, business, as well as stunning coastlines and natural landmarks.”
The Wetwheels Foundation will be joining Maritime UK Solent at the Southampton International Boat Show on 22 September, where the shortlisted nominees for this year’s Awards are to be announced. Wetwheels will be giving a presentation to Maritime UK Solent’s Network at their regular monthly briefing, highlighting the unique opportunity that they offer disabled people of all ages.
Maritime UK Solent will work with the Wetwheels Foundation to raise awareness of the valuable work undertaken by the charity, during the Awards promotions and as part of the ceremony.
Stuart Baker, Managing Director of Maritime UK Solent, said: “We’re so proud to be bringing this partnership to the Awards. The Wetwheels Foundation is a fantastic charity, offering incredible experiences for disabled people in the Solent community, many getting out on the water for the first time. We are thrilled to support them.
“Not only will the Awards evening provide an ideal platform for spreading the word about the Charity’s great work, but we also hope to be able to raise some money towards supporting all that they do.”
The regional voice of the Solent maritime cluster is hosting its inaugural awards to celebrate the best of maritime across the region and to offer businesses the opportunity to gain recognition for their contribution to the continued success of the sector.